Security National Financial Corporation Sees Decline in Q1 Earnings
Overview of Financial Performance
Security National Financial Corporation (SNFC) (NASDAQ: SNFCA) has recently reported its financial results for the quarter ending March 31, 2025. The figures indicate a notable decline in earnings compared to the same quarter last year, with after-tax earnings dropping approximately 42% — down from $7.475 million in 2024 to $4.338 million in 2025. Pre-tax earnings experienced a similar reduction of about 42% as well, decreasing to $5.571 million.
Insights from Leadership
Scott Quist, the Chairman of the Board and CEO of SNFC, expressed disappointment over the decline in quarterly income. He emphasized that such outcomes are below the company’s expectations. Nonetheless, he highlighted that operationally, the firm performed adequately. The Insurance Segment achieved its second-best Q1 performance in the past five years, while the Death Care Segment marked its third-best Q1 during the same timeframe, an impressive feat considering the operational challenges presented by the pandemic.
Investment Income Challenges
Approximately $3 million of the pre-tax income decline is attributed to dips in both realized and unrealized investment income. The fluctuating nature of investment income can largely be tied to real estate activities, particularly those involving home closings and lot sales, as well as performance in public equity markets. In Q1 2025, SNFC participated in fewer home closings than in the previous year, which ultimately impacted their overall investment income.
Real Estate Activities Impact
Roughly 56% — or about $1.7 million — of the decline in investment income was due to reduced profits from construction and sales from residential lots. Despite builders having more projects underway, there were fewer completions during the quarter. While margins remained consistent with previous years, they still rely heavily on actual sales, which have slowed. Market conditions show a slight increase in housing inventories and days on market, though not to a level that raises significant concern.
Stock Market Effects
The stock market also impacted SNFC’s income, contributing approximately $1.25 million — or 42% — of the investment income decrease. The company has refrained from liquidating its holdings, meaning that losses are marked as unrealized until such actions are taken. This strategic decision reflects SNFC's long-term investment outlook rather than short-term financial maneuvers.
Personnel Costs and Strategic Growth
SNFC's personnel costs rose by 11.7%, roughly translating to an increase of about $2.2 million compared to 2024. This rise is partially due to standard compensation raises for employees and management, ensuring SNFC remains competitive in hiring and retaining skilled professionals. Additionally, the increase includes staffing expansion at various levels, signifying the company's commitment to achieving its growth objectives.
Positive Achievements Amid Decline
Despite the income decrease, SNFC achieved several accomplishments in early 2025. In the Death Care Segment, families served increased by 4%, highlighting resilience in a generally static mortality climate. The Insurance Segment also saw improved premium margins, reflecting successful rate adjustments made over recent years. Furthermore, the Mortgage Segment recorded an 11% increase in volume, exhibiting a favorable product mix and positive cash flow by March.
Current Book and Shareholder Information
For the three months ended March 31, 2025, the net earnings per common share dropped to $0.18, down from $0.31 per share in the previous year, adjusted for annual stock dividends. The book value per share also increased slightly, standing at $14.68 as of March 31, 2025, compared to $14.45 at the end of December 2024. As of the last update, the company had 23,601,718 Class A equivalent shares outstanding.
Contact Information
If you have any inquiries, please reach out to:
Security National Financial Corporation
P.O. Box 57250
Phone (801) 264-1060
Fax (801) 265-9882
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the decline in Security National Financial Corporation's earnings?
The decline is primarily attributed to decreases in investment income due to lower realized profits from real estate activities and stock market fluctuations.
How did the company's different segments perform?
The Insurance Segment performed well, achieving its second-best Q1 in five years, while the Death Care Segment increased families served by 4% despite challenging market conditions.
What are the key factors affecting investment income?
Investment income has been influenced by fewer home closings, real estate construction profits, and stock market performance.
What is SNFC’s approach to staffing and personnel costs?
SNFC has strategically increased personnel costs to remain competitive and achieve growth goals while ensuring high-quality staffing across all levels.
Where can I reach Security National Financial Corporation for information?
Interested individuals can reach Security National Financial Corporation at their office in Salt Lake City or contact them by phone or fax as provided above.
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